Police scour Detroit for inmate who escaped from hospital

19-year-old Kenneth Hickman fled from his hospital bed when the officer who was assigned to him stepped out of the room

By Katrease Stafford
Detroit Free Press

DETROIT — Detroit police are searching for a prisoner who escaped from custody while receiving treatment at Sinai Grace Hospital Wednesday.

Sgt. Michael Woody said 19-year-old Kenneth Hickman fled from his hospital bed when the officer who was assigned to him stepped out of the room. Woody said the officer believed Hickman was cuffed to the bed. The officer immediately called for help.

"He was at Sinai Grace Hospital being treated for wounds he sustained during an attempted robbery," Woody said. "He attempted to rob someone back on May 9."

Police say Hickman of Detroit was arrested after police said he tried to rob a 42-year-old female and her 29-year-old male friend at gunpoint in her home. Hickman was being treated for a gunshot wound he received during that attempted robbery. Woody said Hickman was set to be transferred to jail before he escaped.

Woody said police are not sure whether Hickman is armed, but he should be considered dangerous. Police are continuing to search for Hickman tonight, Woody said.

He said citizens should not confront Hickman if they see him. "Call 911 and let us know right away."